Instant Pot Creamy Tortellini, Spinach, and Chicken Soup
Creamy tomato-based soup with bites of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach. This electric pressure cooker version is a quick and easy one-pot meal. It makes plenty of servings; you can easily halve this recipe.
Creamy tomato-based soup with bites of tender chicken, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach. This electric pressure cooker version is a quick and easy one-pot meal. It makes plenty of servings; you can easily halve this recipe.
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- 2 cans petite diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts* (i used half thighs
- 4 cups frozen cheese tortellini (or you can use fresh)
- 3 cups packed spinach (you can also use kale if you pref
- 1 cup half and half warmed
- Carbohydrate 7.29393177679 g
- Cholesterol 533.088170258175 mg
- Fat 101.220764565936 g
- Fiber 1.08573217658476 g
- Protein 136.908139226183 g
- Saturated Fat 31.3768880473016 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (833g)
- Sodium 542.946876231684 mg
- Sugar 6.20819960020524 g
- Trans Fat 8.55848943311135 g
- Calories 1520 calories
Step-by-step
- Turn the Instant Pot on to the saute function, on the highest setting.
- Heat the oil in the bottom of the pot.
- Add in the diced onion and stir for a couple of minutes.
- Add in the garlic and stir until the onions are translucent, another couple of minutes.
- Add in the basil, tomato paste, chicken broth, tomatoes, chicken, salt, and pepper. Give a quick stir.
- Cover the Instant Pot and secure the lid. Make sure the valve is set to "sealing."
- Press the manual pressure cook button and set the timer to 15 minutes (high pressure).
- Once the timer beeps, let out the pressure by gently moving the valve to "venting."
- Spoon the chicken out and place it on a cutting board.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and then add it back into the pot.
- Stir in the tortellini, spinach, Parmesan cheese, and half-and-half.
- Turn the Instant Pot to saute to heat up the tortellini quickly.
- Once the tortellini is warmed through, ladle the soup into bowls and serve.
Instant Pot Creamy Tortellini, Spinach, and Chicken Soup: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the endless to-do list, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen is often overwhelming. That’s why I've become a huge fan of quick and easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. This Instant Pot Creamy Tortellini, Spinach, and Chicken Soup is a perfect example. It’s a complete meal, packed with protein, veggies, and a creamy, comforting broth – all ready in under 30 minutes!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal chopping, and the Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting. No more standing over a stove stirring – the pressure cooker handles the simmering, allowing you to focus on other tasks. I often prep the ingredients while my kids are doing their homework, and by the time they're finished, dinner is almost ready. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
The creamy tomato broth is the star of this show. The sweetness of the tomatoes, enhanced by a hint of basil, complements the savory chicken and cheesy tortellini beautifully. The spinach adds a burst of freshness and nutrients, balancing the richness of the soup. My kids, who are notoriously picky eaters, absolutely devour this soup. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day – perfect for a quick lunch.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese tortellini – spinach and ricotta, meat, or even pumpkin. You can also swap out the spinach for kale or other leafy greens, depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand. The chicken thighs are incredibly flavorful, but chicken breasts work equally well. Adjust the amount of half-and-half to control the creaminess to your liking – a little less for a lighter soup, a little more for an extra-rich indulgence.
But the real magic is the Instant Pot. This amazing kitchen appliance has revolutionized my weeknight dinners. Its speed and ease of use have given me more time to focus on the things that truly matter – spending quality time with my family, and not stressing about dinner preparation. This creamy tortellini soup is just one example of the countless delicious and convenient meals that I can whip up in a fraction of the time it used to take. So, if you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and effortless weeknight dinner, this Instant Pot Creamy Tortellini, Spinach, and Chicken Soup is a must-try.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup.
- Add a handful of shredded carrots or zucchini for extra vegetables.
- If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving for extra flavor and visual appeal.
This Instant Pot Creamy Tortellini Soup isn't just a recipe; it's a lifesaver for busy families. It's a testament to how delicious and easy healthy meals can be, even on the busiest of days. Try it out, and I guarantee it will become a new family favorite.
